Dachshund Clothes: Size and Fit for a Long Back

For a Dachshund, measure the back length first and the chest second: most Doxies need a size chosen for their length, with straps or stretch to take in the chest. Miniature Dachshunds usually wear XS–S and standard Dachshunds M–L, but individual dogs vary a lot, so always measure.

Typical Dachshund measurements

These are reference ranges only – measure your own dog. Our Dachshund clothes page checks every style's size chart and leaves out styles that are too short in the back for a Doxie (when the chart lists back length).

How to measure a Dachshund

1. Back length: from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail.
2. Chest girth: around the deepest part of the chest, just behind the front legs. Add about 2" (5 cm) for comfort.
3. Neck: around the base of the neck where the collar sits.

Pick the size whose back length is closest to your dog's without going over by more than an inch, then check the chest still has 2" of room.

Fit checks for a long, low body

• Belly clearance: the underside must not drag on the ground or snow – Doxies are very low.
• Short front legs: leg openings should sit high and not pull the coat back when walking.
• Boys: look for a belly cut that stops before the sheath so the coat stays dry.
• Back support: nothing should press on the spine; skip heavy, stiff coats that change how your dog moves.
• Harness: if you walk with a harness (recommended for many Doxies), choose a coat with a harness opening – see dog coat with a harness hole.

What to choose

For cool days, a stretchy dog sweater that covers the belly; for snow and slush, an insulated dog winter coat with chest coverage; for rain, a dog raincoat that doesn't drag. Dachshunds' short legs mean their bellies get cold and wet first.